Stairs are the part many people worry about most, and that worry is completely fair. With the right technique, though, a walking stick can help you manage steps safely and steadily.
There is a simple phrase that makes it easy to remember: up with the good, down with the bad. Here is how it works in practice.
Going up the stairs
Going up, your stronger leg leads the way.
- Hold the handrail with your free hand if there is one.
- Step up with your stronger leg first.
- Bring your weaker leg and the stick up to the same step together.
- Pause if you need to, then repeat one step at a time.
Going down the stairs
Going down, the order flips. Your stick and weaker leg go first.
- Hold the handrail with your free hand.
- Place the stick and your weaker leg onto the lower step together.
- Bring your stronger leg down to meet them.
- Take it slowly, one step at a time.
Using the handrail and the stick together gives you two points of support. If holding both is awkward, the handrail is usually the safer choice, so use it whenever one is available.
Staying safe on stairs
A few simple habits go a long way on stairs.
- Never rush. One step at a time, with a pause whenever you need it.
- Good lighting. Make sure the stairs are well lit, day and night.
- Check the rubber tip. A worn tip can slip, so replace it when needed.
- Know your limits. If stairs feel unsafe even with care, talk to a physiotherapist about other options.
The same load-sharing principle applies on the flat too, so if you have not already, read how to use a walking stick correctly and check which side to hold it.
Key takeaways:
- Going up: strong leg first, then weak leg and stick together.
- Going down: stick and weak leg first, then strong leg.
- Use a handrail when you can, and always take one step at a time.
A steady, well-fitted stick makes stairs less daunting. Browse walking sticks with fast Australian delivery, or talk to our friendly team. Shop with confidence, we have got you covered.